Bhavnath Mela at Junagadh

Maha Shivaratri at Bhavnath Fair: Junagadh

Bhavnath is a tiny village in the Junagadh district of Gujarat. It resides near the Girnar peak range. Also it is a position that is connected to many religions like Hindu and Jain.

The Shiva ling here is said to have emerged of its own divine intention. Reportedly, when Shiva and Parvati were traveling over the Girnar Hills their divine garment fell over the present Mrigi Kund, making this place an auspicious site for lord Shiva worshipers. Even today, the Naga Bavas [Naked Sadhus] bathe in the holy Mrigi Kund before joining the Maha Shivaratri procession. The fair itself is so ancient that its precise origins are unknown.

Maha Shivratri is the chief annual fair that gains fame for its compelling appeal.

Bhavnath Temple

The Bhavnath Mahadev Mela is detained at the Bhavnath Mahadev Temple. It is positioned at the bottom of Mount Girnar in the city of Junagadh. Girnar is a sacred house of nine gods that are measured to be everlasting.

The Bhavnath fair is a five-day occasion in Magha month of Hindu calendar, in the month of February-March, culminating with the most auspicious worship of God Shiva, at midnight of Maha Shivaratri, which is thronged by hundreds of Naga Sadhus [naked Sadhus] of Dashanami Sampradaya, taking dip at Mrigi kund (tank) and offering their prayers at the temple. People believe that God Shiva himself visits the shrine here on this holiest day. The Mahapuja of Lord Shiva takes consign at midnight in this temple. The Naga Bavas protest in the parade when the Puja ceremony begins.

People from all places come to see the last night procession. They gather to occupy places from around 2:00 pm onward. The procession starts at around 9:00 pm and goes till midnight.

A palanquin carrying a festooned statue of Lord Dattatreya precedes them. They grasp flags and blow counch shells. On the way; they execute dance and other attractive activities. They arrive at the temple at midnight and take a dip thrust in the Mrigi Kund. Unlike Kumbh Mela, only three Akhadas that are three groups of Sadhus take part in the Kund Bath. Folk melody and dances are executed on this occasion.

At Bhavnath, gratis meals are served by management of different groups (Sanghas). Visitors can also discover particular tea stalls, idols, holy beads and much more domestic items. Utensils of brass and copper portray magnetism of the visitors.

To be blessed by Lord Shiva, visit the divine fair of Bhavnath during Maha Shivaratri. I am blessed.